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Progesterone

Progesterone is a hormone produced in the ovaries during the second half of the menstrual cycle that helps prepare the uterus for pregnancy. Progesterone is also produced by the placenta during pregnancy and helps the placenta function properly.

At the end of pregnancy, a drop in progesterone helps start labor contractions.

When a woman reaches the end of her reproductive years and begins menopause, her level of progesterone declines.

Author Robin Parks, MS
Editor Kathleen M. Ariss, MS
Editor Maria Essig
Associate Editor Pat Truman, MATC
Primary Medical Reviewer Anne C. Poinier, MD - Internal Medicine
Specialist Medical Reviewer Kirtly Jones, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology
Last Updated May 16, 2008

WebMD Medical Reference from Healthwise

Last Updated: May 16, 2008
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